Does a dishwasher kill germs on dishes?

Here's a breakdown:

Factors that affect germ killing:

* Water temperature: Most dishwashers reach temperatures high enough to kill many germs. However, older models or those with "eco" settings might not get hot enough.

* Detergent: Dishwasher detergents contain chemicals that help break down food and kill germs.

* Rinse aid: Rinse aid helps dishes dry more effectively, which can prevent bacteria from growing.

* Wash cycle: A longer, hotter wash cycle is more effective at killing germs.

* Pre-washing: It's important to pre-wash dishes with visible food debris before putting them in the dishwasher.

What's killed:

* Most bacteria: Dishwashers can kill a wide range of common bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella.

* Some viruses: Some viruses are susceptible to heat, but others are more resistant.

* Fungi and yeast: Dishwashers can also kill many fungi and yeast.

What's NOT killed:

* Spores: Some bacteria form spores that are resistant to heat and detergents.

* Certain viruses: Some viruses, like norovirus, can survive even high temperatures.

Recommendations for maximum germ killing:

* Use a high-quality detergent.

* Select a hot wash cycle.

* Use rinse aid.

* Pre-wash dishes to remove visible food debris.

* Consider sanitizing cycle (if available).

Important Note: Dishwashers are not a substitute for proper handwashing, especially for delicate items like baby bottles or utensils used for preparing raw meat. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for your specific dishwasher model.